Student Groups Demand Immediate Rescue of Kidnap Victims

Two national student bodies — the National Association of Odùduwà Students (NAOS) and the Senate arm of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) — have expressed deep concern over the rising cases of insecurity across the country and called on the Federal Government to urgently intensify efforts to rescue victims of recent attacks. In […]

Two national student bodies — the National Association of Odùduwà Students (NAOS) and the Senate arm of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) — have expressed deep concern over the rising cases of insecurity across the country and called on the Federal Government to urgently intensify efforts to rescue victims of recent attacks.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, the groups cited recent incidents of killings, kidnappings and attacks on schools and communities in several states, saying the situation has heightened fear among citizens and disrupted education in affected areas.

They referenced the attack on a church in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, where worshippers were killed and others abducted; the invasion of St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Niger State, where pupils, staff and a security guard were taken; the abduction of students at Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State; and the killing of farmers and fishermen in Borno State.

NAOS and NAPS said the recurring incidents had placed significant pressure on communities and educational institutions. “Education is now under attack. Worship is no longer safe. Communities are being terrorised,” the statement read.

The organisations called for a more coordinated security response and urged the government to provide regular updates on ongoing rescue efforts.

Their demands include:

1. Immediate rescue of all abducted persons with clear timelines and periodic public briefings.

2. A nationwide security operation targeting criminal groups, supported by quarterly national security assessment reports.

3. Strengthening security in schools and places of worship, particularly in high-risk areas, through trained protection units and improved intelligence networks.

4. Arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in kidnapping and terrorism.

5. Review and monitoring of persons previously rehabilitated under deradicalisation programmes.

 

The groups also urged community leaders, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders to support national efforts aimed at improving security.

They warned that prolonged inaction would force them to consider lawful civic actions, including passing a vote of no confidence in the government if their concerns remain unaddressed.

“Schools must not become unsafe spaces, and the government has a constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property,” the statement added.

The statement was signed by NAOS President, Comrade Olalere Benedict Adetunji, and NAPS Senate President, Comrade Oyewumi Festus Ayomide.